Name: Aarya Patil | Institution: University of Bristol, United Kingdom | Course: MSc in Management with a specialisation in Marketing
Key Highlights
- Choose a university that resonates with you: Opt for an institution that enjoys reputation, world-class faculty, and practical learning approach
- Immerse yourself in university life: Embrace the academic rigour, and diverse peer interactions
- Adapt and thrive in a new environment: Navigating cultural differences, overcome initial hurdles like accommodation and local transportation with available support
- Engage in extracurricular activities: Participate actively in university life by joining clubs and taking on leadership roles
- Manage finances wisely: Balance your finances through careful budgeting, and part-time internships that provide both income and valuable experience
Aarya Patil | Campus Life
As a student of marketing Aarya’s coursework includes modules in management and organisation, strategy, accounting and finance, marketing, operations, and marketing management. To enhance her academic understanding with real-world experience, Aarya has taken on several marketing internships and has served as the vice president of the University of Bristol Marketing Society. For her effort to gain significant professionals through work experience and participation in activities outside the curriculum, Aarya has recently been awarded with the Bristol Plus Award by her institution. She shared her experiences of campus life in the UK with Global Indian:
Why did you choose to study at the University of Bristol?
I chose the University of Bristol due to its outstanding reputation in the field of management and marketing, its world-class faculty, and its vibrant academic community. The university’s strong connections with industry and the practical approach to learning were significant factors in my decision. Additionally, the city of Bristol offers a rich cultural experience and a supportive environment for students.
How has life been at the university since you got there?
Life at the university has been enriching and dynamic. I have enjoyed the academic rigour (as the academic exams at the university and back home are a bit different) and the opportunity to engage with a diverse group of peers. The support from faculty and the availability of resources have greatly enhanced my learning experience. The vibrant campus life and various student activities have made my time here enjoyable and fulfilling.
How was settling in a new place for you?
Settling in a new place was initially challenging due to the cultural differences and the need to adapt to a new environment. However, the university’s orientation programs and the friendly community helped me adjust quickly. Finding accommodation and understanding the local transportation system were some of the initial hurdles, but they were manageable with the available support.
What have you enjoyed the most at the university / in the new place?
I have enjoyed the diversity of the student body and the opportunity to meet people from various backgrounds. The extracurricular activities and events organised by the university have been a great way to socialise and network. The city of Bristol, with its vibrant arts scene, historic landmarks, and beautiful landscapes, has been a wonderful place to explore. I love exploring Banksy’s art all over the city.
Aarya Patil with friends
How do you manage your finances? Do you work part time?
I manage my finances by budgeting carefully and keeping track of my expenses. I have received a scholarship from the university which covers a part of my tuition fee and gives me a bursary for living expenses. I have also taken up a part-time internship as a marketing manager at an SME, which provides additional income and valuable work experience. The university offers various resources and workshops on financial management that have been quite helpful.
Do you engage in extracurricular activities?
Yes, I actively engage in extracurricular activities. I am the Vice President of the Marketing Society, where I have secured sponsorships and collaborated on events. Additionally, I serve as the Digital Media Representative for Epigram, the university’s student newspaper. These roles have allowed me to develop leadership skills and contribute to the university community.
How do you manage your studies along with other engagements?
Time management and prioritisation are key to balancing studies with other engagements. I maintain a schedule that allocates specific times for academic work, extracurricular activities, and personal time. Being organised and setting clear goals has helped me stay on top of my responsibilities and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
What has been most challenging while studying in a foreign land / university?
The most challenging aspect has been adapting to a different educational system and the cultural differences. The initial period of adjustment involved understanding new academic expectations and learning methods. Additionally, being away from family and familiar support systems required developing new networks and coping strategies.
How do you look at the future after completing your studies?
After completing my studies, I aim to leverage the knowledge and skills I have acquired to advance my career in marketing. I am particularly interested in roles that offer strategic responsibilities and opportunities for innovation. I am also open to exploring entrepreneurial ventures and contributing to the development of new marketing solutions.
Tips for students who want to study abroad for their undergraduate studies?
- Research thoroughly: Look for universities and programs that align with your career goals
- Understand the environment: Familiarise yourself with the cultural and academic setting of your chosen destination to make the transition easier
- Build a support network: Connect with peers, mentors, and local communities to create a strong support system
- Stay organised: Keep track of your responsibilities and manage your time effectively to balance academics and personal life
- Be open to new experiences: Embrace the cultural differences and new opportunities that studying abroad offers
- Work on your budget carefully: Explore scholarships or part-time work to help reduce financial stress
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